10 Tips for a Flawless Holiday Proposal

The holiday season is fast approaching, and with it all the festive cheer – and food – we love to partake in every year. With all the eating, drinking, and merrymaking, it’s no surprise that the most popular time to pop the question is between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Eve. It’s a time of year when spirits are high, vacations are planned, and families have gathered to celebrate.

If you’re planning a holiday proposal, you’ve got to make sure that you pull it off flawlessly. Despite it being a great time to do it, you need to properly navigate all the potential pitfalls this season can present. Here are 10 of our favorite, season-specific tips that will help you make your holiday proposal a memorable one for all.

Be prepared.

Chances are you’re going to be nervous – most people are. There’s no shame in writing down what you want to say and rehearsing it a few times before the big moment. Go ahead and do it in front of a mirror. It might sound like a strange thing to do, but you will be glad you did it when the moment of truth arrives.

Think about her family.

We don’t mean automatically include her family in the event. Just consider the family situation. If your soon-to-be fiancé has a close-knit family that loves you, you might want to include them. If you’d like the proposal to be just you two, then go for it!

Consider doing it at home.

Instead of proposing in a crowded restaurant, consider hiring a chef for a romantic, home-cooked meal. Do you have the skills? Prepare a delicious dinner for her – but don’t get lost in making it too elaborate.

If you’re traveling, be covert…

If you’re taking a plane, pack the ring in your carry-on luggage (rather than keeping it in your pocket) to prevent airport security from spoiling the surprise!

…And do it sooner than later.

If you’re planning a destination proposal, pop the question on the first day so you can relax for the rest of the trip. There’s nothing worse than nerves putting a damper on your fun.

Seduce her senses.

Make your proposal unforgettable by incorporating all five senses. The scent of fresh pine, a mug of hot cocoa, a roaring fire, a cozy blanket, and seasonal songs playing in the background will make for a memorable setting.

Secure the ring.

This tip might not be romantic, but be sure that the ring is secure inside the box before putting it in your pocket so it doesn’t pop out. Proposing without the box? Safety pin it to the inside of your pants pocket for extra security.

Insure the ring.

As a follow up to the above, insure the ring before you propose. Again, this isn’t romantic, but accidents happen. Be prepared for them!

Choose the right day.

Avoid proposing on or right before someone else’s big day or any other special day. This includes birthdays, anniversaries, and holidays. This is an important thing to remember since you’re choosing the holiday season to propose.

Be creative, but clear.

Writing a poem or composing a song for your proposal is great, but make sure finish with the precise words: “Will you marry me?” It will prompt your sweetie to give you the answer you’re waiting to hear!